Thomas (T.J.) Horwood, M.Ed. '02Â
Currently Resides In: Canton, OH
Volunteer Position(s) with KSUAA: I have been volunteering for two years and currently serve as the LGBTQ+ Alumni Chapter president.
Why is volunteering with KSUAA important to you? What motivates you to volunteer?
I wanted to help start the LGBTQ+ Alumni Chapter because I saw how Kent State was committed to being a welcoming institution where all are valued. I am hoping the LGBTQ+ Alumni Chapter will create a space for alumni who identify as LGBTQ+ and our allies to connect with each other through social and networking activities. In addition, I would like for our chapter leaders and members to serve as ambassadors for LGBTQ+ issues to provide another alumni voice at the university and in the broader KSU community that extends across the world. Moreover, I would like to see our chapter help to create long-term, sustainable support for current students in terms of both moral support and financial giving to scholarships like the LGBTQ Emergency Fund.
Why did you choose to attend Kent State?
Kent State felt like home since I had spent a lot of time there visiting friends while I was an undergraduate student, so it was a natural choice for graduate school and the Higher Education program was top notch!
What are your favorite memories at Kent State?
My favorite memories at Kent State were working out at the rec center, grad nights out in downtown Kent and hanging out at Susan's Coffee with my classmates.
What is your favorite event you participated in as a volunteer?
I have been truly inspired by the stories I heard from students at Lavender Graduation ceremonies and wondered what I could do as an alum to help them navigate the world beyond Kent State. The LGBTQ+ Alumni Chapter is one way that my fellow alumni and I can demonstrate our support.
What is your proudest accomplishment(s) as a volunteer?
My proudest accomplishment as a volunteer is getting the LGBTQ+ Alumni Chapter up and running as an official chapter.
What advice would you share with someone looking to volunteer with KSUAA?
My advice would be to find a way you can get involved that really matches things about which you are passionate about.